The news follows the latest formal request filed by President of the Patong Entertainment Association (PEBA), Weerawit Kuresombat, who for years has petitioned the government to broaden the rules governing Phuket’s entertainment industry.

His latest request called on the Ministry of Interior to consider expanding the entertainment zones at Bangla Road in Patong and along Taina Road in Karon, as well as consider new zones elsewhere on the island.

“I asked for the government to consider including Soi Sansabai and a small street off Soi Sensabai, in the Patong entertainment zone, and to consider allowing businesses in entertainment zones to close at am,” Mr Weerawit said.

“I also asked for bars and clubs at the Patong OTOP area to be allowed to register as night entertainment venues, and for the southern end of Phang Muang Sai Kor Road to be declared its own entertainment zone.”

Pakpoom Intarasuwan, Provincial Office Chief Administrative Officer (Palad), told The Phuket News this week that the three District Chiefs in Phuket have all been asked to collate information about the likely possible sites for entertainment zones in their areas.

“We will meet next week to discuss what they have to report,” Mr Pakpoom said.

“However, any new or expanded areas must be designated in accordance with existing law, and for example will not be allowed near schools, temples and hospitals,” he added.